Frequently Asked Questions

All players must be 15 years or older on the day they play, without exception. Players who are under 18 must have the consent of a parent, legal guardian or authorised adult in order to play, and must sign a waiver before they begin play.

Spec Ops Paintball is classed as a licensed Shooting Gallery under the Queensland Weapons Act, and we abide by the regulations of this act accordingly.

Do I need to show photo ID each time I play at Spec Ops Paintball?

Yep. Acceptable forms of ID are driver’s license, 18+ card, school ID, or passport. Your ID will be held until the end of the session, when all the equipment has been returned.

Do you accept walk-ins?

If we have an existing session running and there are available spots, you’re more than welcome to walk in and join that group. But, we get full pretty quickly, especially on the weekends. We recommend booking in advance to secure a spot at a time that works for you.

How many players are needed per group?

As paintball is a team activity, we need a minimum of ten players to run a session, if there are no existing bookings for that timeslot. However, if we have a session running, you’re welcome to join the game even as a single player.

Can anyone play?

We make every effort to make Spec Ops Paintball a welcoming venue for players of any gender, every shape and size, physical ability and level of experience.

Can I bring my own paintball marker and gear?

Private markers are allowed. However, markers are not permitted to be on ramping, and must be set on single shot only. Each marker will be subject to chronographing prior to the session to ensure safety limits are met. You’ll also need to bring your Firearms Licence on the day.

You can wear your own gear and paintball mask. Safety supervisors will check your mask prior to entering the field to ensure it meets safety standards. Only paintballs purchased from Spec Ops Paintball may be used on the field.

What happens on the day?

You’ll need to arrive at Spec Ops Paintball one hour before the session starts.

On arrival, you will need to complete a waiver if you haven’t done so online. Then, you’ll be fitted out with all the gear you’ve selected in your online package. You can also upgrade your package or purchase extra paintballs on the day.

You’ll receive a compulsory safety briefing each time you play, then each team will receive a scenario briefing based on the type of game you are going to play.

Each session is 2 hours long, however each game can last between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on how the game scenario plays out. Some games may be played with adjusted lighting or no light.

What should I bring with me on the day?

All players will need Photo ID. Enclosed footwear is also compulsory. It can get pretty warm on the field, so wear light, comfortable clothing.

You’ll also need to bring your signed Registration & Waiver form (or just fill one out on the day).

Is there anywhere to store my valuables?

Lockers are available. A $5 deposit is required, which is refunded upon return of the key and lock.

Can we bring alcohol?

Nope. In accordance with the Queensland Weapons Act, no alcohol or other intoxicating substances are permitted on site. Any players who have been drinking or using illegal substances prior to coming will be excluded from the games and will be asked to leave the premises. The field operator reserves the right to remove players at any time if he or she deems the player is unsafe to themselves or to others.

Is there anything to eat or drink at Spec Ops Paintball?

Paintball can be thirsty work! Snacks and drinks are available to purchase at Spec Ops, including chips, chocolates, water, sports drinks, soft drinks and energy drinks. We’re also right next door to the Normanby Hotel, where you can grab a feed after the session.

Will the paint from the paintballs wash out?

The paintballs are water-soluble and the paint should wash away with water. However, please don’t wear anything you wouldn’t want to get stained, just in case.

Does it hurt getting hit by a paintball?

Sometimes. When a player gets hit, it usually feels like a slight sting that fades quickly. It’s similar to a firm flick on the arm. Paintballs can cause bruising, depending on the speed of the ball, the distance the ball travels, and where on your body the ball has hit. All players have the option to wear additional protective gear.

How many paintballs will I need?

This depends on how trigger-happy you are! It’s entirely up to each person how many paintballs they want to use. You can purchase extra paintballs at any time throughout the session. On average, each person uses between 400 and 700 paintballs per session.

How can I get to Spec Ops Paintball?

Spec Ops is accessible by public transport, and we also have plenty of onsite parking available.

Driving directions:

You enter Spec Ops via 46 Kelvin Grove Road, just 5 minutes from the Brisbane CBD (less than two kilometres). We’re within walking distance of the QUT Kelvin Grove campus, behind the Normanby Hotel. Please see our staff if you’d like to leave your car in our car park after your session ends.

Public Transport options:

Bus

The Normanby Busway Station is the closest bus station. It’s located on the Inner Northern Bypass beneath the MA Howell Indoor Sports Centre at the Normanby Fiveways. There is pedestrian access via two arrival towers with stairway and lift access from Kelvin Grove Road.